Singing is an art form that requires skill, practice, and technique. While many songs may be easy for some to sing, others can prove to be incredibly challenging, even for the most experienced and talented vocalists. In this article, we will explore the top 20 hardest songs to sing for males.
These songs have been chosen based on a variety of factors, including vocal range, technical difficulty, and overall complexity. Some of the songs on this list require an incredibly wide vocal range, such as Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” or Jeff Buckley’s “Hallelujah”. Others require exceptional control and breath support, such as Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” or Adele’s “Someone Like You”.
Regardless of the specific challenges they present, each of these songs is incredibly difficult to sing and requires a high level of skill and expertise to pull off successfully. They are the songs that separate the truly exceptional vocalists from the rest of the pack. Whether you’re an aspiring singer looking to challenge yourself or simply a fan of impressive vocal performances, these 20 songs are sure to impress and leave an impact. So without further ado, let’s dive into the top 20 hardest songs to sing for males.
1. “Dream On” by Aerosmith
“Dream On” is a classic rock song by American band Aerosmith, released in 1973. The track’s soaring vocals, driven by frontman Steven Tyler’s powerful and emotive voice, make it one of the band’s signature hits. The song’s lyrics, which encourage listeners to pursue their dreams and never give up, have become an anthem for generations of fans. The song’s memorable guitar riffs and evocative piano intro make it instantly recognizable, while its combination of hard rock and ballad elements showcases the band’s musical versatility. “Dream On” remains one of Aerosmith’s most beloved and enduring tracks, a testament to the power of rock and roll to inspire and uplift.
2. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is a classic rock song by British band Queen, released in 1975. The track’s complex structure, combining elements of progressive rock, opera, and pop, makes it one of the most iconic and recognizable songs in rock history. The song’s lyrics, sung in the distinctive and powerful voice of lead singer Freddie Mercury, explore themes of love, death, and identity, with the repeated refrain of “Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?” capturing the song’s surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. “Bohemian Rhapsody” remains a fan favorite and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
3. “Best Of You” by Foo Fighters
“Best of You” is a rock song by American band Foo Fighters, released in 2005. The track’s anthemic chorus, with frontman Dave Grohl’s impassioned vocals and the band’s signature hard-hitting guitar riffs, make it one of their most popular songs. The song’s lyrics, which address the struggle to find one’s true self in the face of adversity, are powerful and relatable, with the chorus urging listeners to “learn to be the best you can”. “Best of You” showcases Foo Fighters’ trademark combination of muscular guitar rock and heartfelt lyrics, making it a standout track in their extensive catalog.
4. “I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing” by Aerosmith
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” is a ballad by American rock band Aerosmith, released in 1998. The track was famously featured in the blockbuster film “Armageddon,” and became the band’s first and only number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s sweeping, emotional melody and Steven Tyler’s distinctive voice make it an unforgettable power ballad. The song’s lyrics, written by legendary songwriter Diane Warren, express a deep and abiding love, with the chorus urging listeners to “not want to miss a thing.” “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” remains one of Aerosmith’s most enduring and beloved tracks, a testament to the power of rock ballads to move and inspire.
5. “Crawling” by Linkin Park
“Crawling” is a nu-metal song by American rock band Linkin Park, released in 2001. The track’s distinctive blend of rap, metal, and electronic elements, combined with Chester Bennington’s powerful and anguished vocals, make it a standout in the band’s catalog. The song’s lyrics deal with the struggle to find oneself in the face of self-doubt and anxiety, with the chorus expressing the desire to break free from a sense of suffocation and fear. “Crawling” remains a fan favorite and a definitive example of the nu-metal genre, with its raw emotion and driving riffs speaking to a generation of fans.
6. “Body and Soul” by John Green
“Body and Soul” is a jazz standard written in 1930 by Johnny Green, with lyrics by Edward Heyman, Robert Sour and Frank Eyton. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, but perhaps the most famous version is by the legendary saxophonist Coleman Hawkins, whose 1939 recording is widely regarded as a jazz masterpiece. The song’s lush melody and sophisticated harmonies make it a favorite of jazz musicians and fans, while its lyrics explore themes of love and desire. “Body and Soul” remains a beloved jazz standard, a testament to the enduring power of the genre to move and inspire.
7. “Cry Me a River” by Michael Bublé
“Cry Me a River” is a jazz standard originally written by Arthur Hamilton and popularized by Julie London in 1955. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Michael Bublé in 2009. Bublé’s version features his smooth vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement that adds to the song’s melancholic atmosphere. The lyrics, which describe a person who has been betrayed in love and urges their former partner to “cry me a river,” are both poignant and catchy. Bublé’s version of “Cry Me a River” has become a favorite of his fans and a modern take on a classic jazz standard.
8. “I Will Do Anything For Love” by Meatloaf
“I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)” is a power ballad by American musician Meat Loaf, released in 1993. The song’s grandiose production, with its soaring orchestra and choral elements, combined with Meat Loaf’s passionate vocals and the song’s catchy refrain, make it an enduring classic. The lyrics, which describe a person who would do anything for love, except for one thing, have become a popular topic of debate among fans. The song’s music video, which features Meat Loaf as a vampire and model Dana Patrick as his lover, has become a cult favorite. “I Would Do Anything for Love” remains a beloved and iconic rock ballad.
9. “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
“Unchained Melody” is a classic love song originally written by Alex North and Hy Zaret for the 1955 film “Unchained”. The song was later popularized by The Righteous Brothers in 1965, and has since become one of the most beloved and enduring love songs of all time. The song’s haunting melody, soaring vocals, and evocative lyrics, which describe the yearning and longing of a lover separated from their beloved, have made it a favorite of generations of fans. “Unchained Melody” has been covered by many artists over the years, but it is the Righteous Brothers’ version that remains the definitive one.
10. “Whataya Want from Me” by Adam Lambert
“Whataya Want from Me” is a song by American singer Adam Lambert, released in 2009. The song, which was co-written by Pink, Max Martin, and Shellback, is a catchy pop rock ballad that features Lambert’s emotive vocals and an infectious chorus. The lyrics, which describe a person trying to figure out what their lover wants from them, are relatable and poignant. “Whataya Want from Me” was a commercial success, charting in several countries, and earning Lambert a Grammy nomination. The song has become one of Lambert’s signature hits and a fan favorite, showcasing his talent for delivering powerful, heartfelt performances.
11. “Faithfully” by Journey
“Faithfully” is a power ballad by American rock band Journey, released in 1983. The song features a soaring melody, lush instrumental arrangements, and Steve Perry’s emotive vocals. The lyrics, which describe a person’s commitment to their lover despite the challenges of life on the road as a musician, have made it a beloved anthem for both Journey’s fans and anyone in a long-distance relationship. “Faithfully” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 of the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the band’s most enduring hits. The song remains a beloved classic and a testament to the power of true love.
12. “Part-Time Lover” by Stevie Wonder
“Part-Time Lover” is a funky pop song by American singer Stevie Wonder, released in 1985. The song features a catchy synth hook, upbeat rhythms, and Wonder’s signature soulful vocals. The lyrics, which describe a man’s secret affair with a woman who is already in a committed relationship, are playful and suggestive. “Part-Time Lover” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100, and earning Wonder a Grammy nomination. The song has become one of Wonder’s most enduring hits, showcasing his talent for blending pop, R&B, and funk into a fun and catchy package.
13. “Sugar, We’re Goin Down” by Fall Out Boy
“Sugar, We’re Goin Down” is a pop punk anthem by American rock band Fall Out Boy, released in 2005. The song features catchy guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and Patrick Stump’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics, which are cryptic and open to interpretation, have been described as an exploration of teenage angst and unrequited love. “Sugar, We’re Goin Down” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100, and becoming one of the band’s most recognizable hits. The song has become a staple of the pop punk genre and a fan favorite, showcasing Fall Out Boy’s talent for delivering catchy, high-energy rock.
14. “The Great Gig in the Sky” by Pink Floyd
“The Great Gig in the Sky” is a haunting and ethereal song by British rock band Pink Floyd, released in 1973. The song features a dramatic and emotional vocal performance by guest singer Clare Torry, who wails and screams over the band’s sweeping instrumental arrangement. The lyrics, which explore the mystery of death and the afterlife, are open to interpretation and offer a sense of cosmic wonder and spirituality. “The Great Gig in the Sky” is considered one of Pink Floyd’s most iconic and beloved songs, showcasing the band’s ability to blend rock, jazz, and classical music into a powerful and emotional experience.
15. “Back In Black” by AC/DC
“Back in Black” is a hard rock classic by Australian band AC/DC, released in 1980. The song features a driving guitar riff, pounding drums, and Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals. The lyrics, which celebrate the band’s return after the death of original singer Bon Scott, are defiant and rebellious, serving as an anthem for rock fans everywhere. “Back in Black” has become one of AC/DC’s most iconic and enduring hits, regularly appearing on “greatest rock songs of all time” lists and serving as a staple of rock radio. The song showcases the band’s raw power, attitude, and signature sound, making it a must-listen for any rock fan.
16. “Carrie” by Europe
“Carrie” is a power ballad by the Swedish rock band Europe, released in 1987. The song features soaring vocals by lead singer Joey Tempest, complemented by a lush instrumental arrangement that includes piano, synthesizers, and guitar solos. The lyrics tell the story of a man who regrets letting go of a former lover, and expresses his desire to win her back. “Carrie” became a commercial success for Europe, reaching the top 10 in several countries and solidifying their status as one of the premier rock bands of the 1980s. The song remains a popular choice for romantic playlists and showcases the band’s talent for crafting emotive and memorable ballads.
17. “MONEY” by Pink Floyd
“MONEY” is a classic rock song by Pink Floyd, released in 1973 as part of their iconic album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song features a distinctive bass line, jazzy saxophone solos, and biting social commentary lyrics. The track’s theme is the destructive nature of greed and the corrupting influence of money on individuals and society. “MONEY” was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions and becoming one of Pink Floyd’s most recognized songs. Its catchy rhythm and thought-provoking lyrics have made it a classic rock staple that remains relevant today, as it highlights the issues of wealth disparity and materialism in our society.
18. “Life On Mars” by David Bowie
“Life on Mars?” is a classic rock song by the late British musician David Bowie, released in 1971. The song is characterized by its theatrical melody and intriguing lyrics, which seem to describe a world that is both fascinating and bizarre. The lyrics contain several surrealistic elements that can be interpreted in various ways, and have been a subject of debate among fans and critics. “Life on Mars?” is considered one of Bowie’s most iconic and enduring songs, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its timeless appeal and cultural significance have cemented its status as a classic of the rock genre.
19. “Paradise City” by Guns N’ Roses
“Paradise City” is a rock anthem by the American band Guns N’ Roses, released in 1987. The song’s infectious melody, catchy guitar riffs, and energetic vocals have made it a classic rock staple. Its lyrics describe a mythical “Paradise City” where anything is possible, and life is wild and exciting. The track’s chorus is one of the most recognizable in rock music, and has become a staple of sporting events and movies. “Paradise City” is one of Guns N’ Roses’ most enduring and beloved songs, and has helped establish the band as one of the most iconic and influential acts of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
20. “B.Y.O.B” by System of a Down
“B.Y.O.B.” is a hard rock song by the American band System of a Down, released in 2005. The track’s title stands for “Bring Your Own Bombs,” and the lyrics are a commentary on the Iraq War and the state of the world in the early 2000s. The song features intense guitar riffs, heavy drum beats, and the band’s signature vocal harmonies, and is known for its politically charged lyrics and passionate delivery. “B.Y.O.B.” won the band a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2006, and has since become a fan favorite and a symbol of resistance against war and oppression.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
